WATCH: Pope Francis Denounces Unjust System that Sacrifices Farmers

The pope appeals for prayers for small farmers in a moving new video

As small farmers around the world live through turbulent economic times, Pope Francis has made a moving video appeal to overcome the injustice that condemns them to marginalization and poverty.

“This earth is a gift from God. It is not right to exploit it for the benefit of just a few, depriving the great majority of their rights and benefits,” he states, as the video presents contrasting images of the international financial markets.

The pope thanks every man and woman who cultivates the earth for their work, telling small farmers: “What you do is essential for the life of all.” He then assures them: “As a person, as a child of God, you deserve a decent life.”

In many countries farmers now face production prices that exceed the proceeds from the sale of their products. For many the situation has become dire. There have even been many cases of suicide in India.

The pope questions each farmer, asking: “How is your work compensated?”

The pontiff concludes his appeal by inviting every person to join in his prayer “that small farmers may receive just compensation for their invaluable work.”

“The Pope Video” (http://thepopevideo.org) is an initiative launched by Francis, in collaboration with the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network, which is present on every continent.